Olawunmi Ajibike
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has announced plans to return missionary schools across the state to their original proprietors as part of a broader strategy to deepen collaboration in the education sector.
He made the disclosure on Friday while hosting the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Michael Francis Crotty, during a courtesy visit at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
The delegation included the Catholic Bishop of Ijebu-Ode, Francis Obafemi Adesina, the Catholic Bishop of Abeokuta, Peter Odetoyinbo, and other senior church leaders.
Governor Abiodun noted that religious organisations have historically played a critical role in advancing education and healthcare, adding that government efforts alone are insufficient to meet growing developmental needs.
He said the planned return of missionary schools reflects the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and partnership with faith-based institutions.
“We believe in working together. Government cannot do it alone, and we are ready to partner with individuals and religious bodies to accelerate development,” the governor stated.
Describing Ogun as a model of religious tolerance, Abiodun highlighted the state’s reputation for peaceful coexistence and its emergence as a destination for religious tourism. He emphasized that faith-based institutions remain key contributors to social stability and economic growth.
The governor also acknowledged the influence of the Catholic Church, pointing to its extensive global and national presence, as well as its longstanding contributions to human development through education and healthcare services.
He added that trust in religious institutions continues to strengthen community cohesion, noting that their impact is widely recognised and valued by the people.
Attributing his administration’s achievements partly to the support of the faithful, Abiodun congratulated the Papal Nuncio on his appointment and expressed optimism about future collaboration between the Church and the state.
In his remarks, Michael Francis Crotty commended the governor for fostering a peaceful and enabling environment for religious activities, saying such conditions have enhanced the Church’s mission in Ogun State.
He encouraged sustained cooperation, particularly in key sectors such as education and healthcare, where shared objectives can drive meaningful impact.
Crotty also praised the government’s initiative to return missionary schools, expressing hope that Catholic institutions, especially within the Ijebu-Ode and Abeokuta dioceses, would benefit from the policy.
“The Church remains committed to working with the state to promote human development, which aligns with our core mission and social teachings,” he said.